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DSM-IV (the “Diagnostics and Statistics Manual, 4th edition” — a reference book for those working in mental health care) estimates the prevalence of BPD is 2%, meaning that 2 out of every 100 people suffer from the disorder. However, DSM-IV was published in 1994, a long time ago. Since then, considerable research has shown the 2% rate may be a significant underestimate.

A telephone study in Iowa in the 1990s indicated that possibly 7% of the population suffers from BPD.